Darnell Mayberry of The Oklahoman says Russell Westbrook may not be 100 percent when the season starts: “An unfortunate knee injury to Westbrook devastated a state and derailed the Thunder’s season. How Westbrook bounces back from that setback will now determine how far the Thunder can go. For five seasons we’ve watched Westbrook display one of the most fearless styles of play on the planet. His relentless attack has always put pressure on defenses and given the Thunder a go-to option whenever all else fails. But will Westbrook still have that same gear with a reconstructed knee? Will he still have that same mentality? Westbrook is expected to make a full recovery from the torn meniscus he suffered on April 24. But he may not be 100 percent to start the season. As a result, we may see a different player initially than the Tasmanian devil we’ve grown accustomed to. After an offseason of rehab, Westbrook’s confidence and rhythm will be worth monitoring just as much as his motor and athleticism.”
Tom Thibodeau is waiting for word on how the league will adjust rules on the defensive end for the upcoming season, from Steve Aschburner of NBA.com: “This is Thibodeau’s third Chicago meeting, since taking over the Bulls in 2010. He sounded eager to hash out some rules interpretations, the sort of thing he probably does for fun in his spare time anyway. “Each year it gets better,” Thibodeau said. “After a summer of watching our games [from last year], watching how the restricted area’s being officiated is always something I’m concerned with. I think initially the offensive player was getting the benefit and they were throwing themselves into the defensive players and getting to the free-throw line. “Then I think the officials adjusted to that – but now maybe going the other way. There are a lot of guys who are fouling in the restricted area and the defense is getting the benefit of the doubt. So I’m curious to see how that changes.”
- Derrick Rose says he never did and never will when it comes to recruiting players, from Beyond the Buzzer: “Rappler: “With big names and big stars like LeBron and Melo entering free agency in 2014, will you recruit for them to be a part of your team?” Derrick Rose: “Oh, no. I don’t recruit. If anybody wants to play with me, I wouldn’t mind playing with [anybody], it could be anybody in the NBA. But as far as recruiting, I never did or never will.”
- Check out Dennis Rodman’s interview with ESPN’s Henry Abbott, then watch this ridiculous commercial called “Get Crackin‘”. I’m sure Kim Jong Un will love Rodman for agreeing to do this one:
James Park is the chief blogger of Sheridan Hoops. Find him on twitter @SheridanBlog.